KUCHING: Sarawak is on track to emerge as a respected regional sports hub, said Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports, Mordi Bimol, citing strong local talent, government backing, and a growing sports culture.
He expressed confidence that the state possesses the right ingredients to rise as a sporting powerhouse, pointing to its depth of grassroots talent and increasing emphasis on structured development.
“I am confident that Sarawak has great potential to emerge as a respected regional sports hub.
“With outstanding local talent, strong support from the state government and a vibrant sports culture, Sarawak is on the right track to becoming a major force in the nation’s sporting landscape,” he said in his address during a dialogue session at Sarawak State Youth and Sports Complex today.
Mordi added that this confidence is further reinforced by Sarawak’s selection as co-host of the 2027 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games, describing it as a significant recognition of the state’s capabilities.
“The selection of Sarawak as co-host of the SEA Games 2027 is a major recognition of its organisational strength, facilities and technical capabilities.
“It is not only a sign of regional confidence, but also a catalyst for more structured, high-quality and internationally aligned sports development,” he said.
He noted that the biennial Games present a valuable opportunity for Sarawak to strengthen its sports ecosystem and produce more athletes capable of competing on the international stage.
“It is a golden opportunity for Sarawak to showcase its true capabilities, enhance its sports ecosystem, and nurture more athletes who can compete at the highest level,” he added.
At the same time, he called on sports bodies across the state to strengthen governance and expand talent development programmes.
“We want to see more Sarawak athletes making their mark at major events such as SUKMA, the SEA Games, Asian Games and even the Olympics,” he said.
Mordi also emphasised the importance of collective commitment in building a sustainable and professional sports ecosystem.
“With strong collaboration, I believe Sarawak can become a centre of sporting excellence that not only produces top athletes, but also builds a professional, sustainable and world-class sports ecosystem. The SEA Games 2027 is just the beginning,” he said.
Separately, he highlighted the scale of grassroots engagement in the state, revealing that the Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS), through the Sarawak State Youth and Sports Department, organised approximately 272 youth and sports development programmes in 2025, attracting more than 640,000 participants.
He added that 1,710 sports bodies are currently registered under the Sports Commissioner’s Office, while 254 youth organisations are registered under the Registrar of Youth Societies, reflecting a growing and active sporting community in Sarawak.
